Video | “The Real Roots of Youth Violence”

This TEDx talk by Craig Pinkney can serve as a powerful introduction to criminology by grounding theoretical concepts in real-world experience. Pinkney discusses the root causes of youth violence—such as trauma, social exclusion, and systemic inequality—which align with key criminological theories like strain, social disorganization, and labeling. By using this video, we can spark critical discussions, connect lived experiences to academic frameworks, and encourage students to think about the broader social context of crime. It’s an engaging and accessible way to introduce students to the relevance and complexity of criminological study.